Toys are a must for babies to learn how to play and develop their senses but if you’re cringing at the thought of buying your baby a whole toy box, don’t panic – you can make your own.

DIY toys are great for babies because they’re fun and interactive and can be made from a variety of materials. They also help parents save money and reduce waste by reusing items that have been lying around the house for years.

1. Felt Toys

Felt is soft and easy to work with, which means babies can easily hold it. It’s also inexpensive to make, so it makes a great toy that won’t break the bank.

2. Wooden Toys

Using wooden toys is an effective way to encourage children to develop their fine motor skills, as well as helping them grasp and hold objects. These wooden toys can be simple, such as a wooden puzzle board or a baby walker, or more complex, such as a stacking puzzle or a toy car.

3. Fabric Balls

Whether they are soft or bouncy, fabric balls are a perfect toy for infants and toddlers. They’re safe for young children because the insides are cotton batting, and they are really colorful and appealing to little ones.

4. Squishy Toys

Developing a baby’s touch is an important part of their development, so it’s always nice to have something that they can feel and explore with their hands. This includes textured cards, squishy material, edible paint, and warm or cool items.

5. Posting Toys

Babies like to post things, such as toys, in boxes, and this game is a great way for them to practice this skill. Wine casks and boxes from tin cans are ideal as they can be cut into different shapes, making them easier for baby to post the right sized toy. Wrap the boxes in brightly coloured book covering, and give baby some small toys to post through the holes.

6. Sensory Toys

For babies who are starting to get interested in touch, a sensory board is a great way for them to explore their new sense. They’ll love looking at the different textures, colors and movements of the different objects that are on the board.

The sensory board can also be used to help with motor skills and concentration, as they will need to focus on the different objects in order to find the ones they want to use. Various objects can be placed on the board, such as a plastic spoon, an old compact mirror or a string of beads.

7. Finger Puppets

Using finger puppets is another great activity for babies to develop their motor skills. It’s an excellent way to get them to interact with their hands and fingers, and it’s fun for the whole family.

8. Fairies

These adorable fairies are a great addition to any toy box and they’re also super-easy to make. They’re also a great activity for toddlers who will love pinning them to the wall!